In a surprising twist in the political landscape, Hollywood star George Clooney has publicly called for President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. Clooney, known for his steadfast support of Democratic causes, expressed his concerns about Biden’s ability to serve another term due to age and health issues in an op-ed published by The New York Times.
The 63-year-old actor and filmmaker, who has previously hosted fundraisers for the 81-year-old president, argued that Biden’s diminishing physical and mental capabilities are a significant concern. Clooney’s critique came just weeks after hosting a record-breaking $28 million fundraiser for Biden in Los Angeles on June 16. In his op-ed, Clooney mentioned that during this event, Biden’s performance showed a noticeable decline compared to previous years.
However, the Biden campaign pushed back against Clooney’s claims, highlighting that it was Clooney who left the event early. “A campaign official who attended that Los Angeles fundraiser tells me that George Clooney left three hours before the president,” reported CNN White House correspondent Kayla Tausche. This remark was intended to counter Clooney’s assertions, suggesting that it was the actor, not Biden, who lacked stamina. Tausche elaborated, “The point of that is to suggest that Biden’s stamina is better than Clooney‘s and Clooney didn‘t have eyes on the entire event.”
In response to a question from host Jake Tapper about the significance of Clooney leaving early, Tausche added that Biden’s upcoming busy travel and fundraising schedule, including trips to Michigan, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, and California, demonstrates his continued vigor and commitment to the campaign.
Clooney, a lifelong Democrat, has been a significant fundraiser for Biden, but his recent statements have shaken the president’s campaign. “I love Joe Biden. As a senator. As a vice president and as president. I consider him a friend, and I believe in him. Believe in his character. Believe in his morals. In the last four years, he’s won many of the battles he’s faced,” Clooney wrote. However, he added, “But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can.”
The actor’s public disapproval has joined a growing chorus of Democrats expressing doubts about Biden’s viability as a candidate. Hollywood figures like Rob Reiner and Michael Douglas have also voiced their concerns, urging the party to consider a younger nominee capable of taking on former President Donald Trump.
Clooney’s op-ed has intensified the debate within the Democratic Party. He warned that ignoring the signs of Biden’s declining health could cost the party the presidency and control of Congress. “Our party leaders need to stop telling us that 51 million people didn’t see what we just saw. We’re all so terrified by the prospect of a second Trump term that we’ve opted to ignore every warning sign,” Clooney wrote.
Despite these criticisms, Biden remains steadfast in his decision to run for re-election. The president’s campaign points to his rigorous travel schedule and upcoming fundraising events as evidence of his continued vitality. Biden is set to visit Michigan, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, and California in the coming weeks.
The White House has dismissed Clooney’s characterization of Biden, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre attributing any perceived lapses in performance to jet lag and a cold. Nonetheless, Clooney’s critique has resonated with some Democratic donors and politicians, causing unease within the party.
“I am concerned,” Michael Douglas, a longtime Biden supporter, told ABC’s “The View.” “I think it’s a valid point,” he said of Clooney’s op-ed. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also weighed in, suggesting that Biden’s decision to run should be made sooner rather than later, as time is running short.
The fallout from Clooney’s statements extends beyond political circles, affecting Biden’s relationship with Hollywood. Some celebrities have supported Clooney’s call for Biden to step aside, while others have criticized him for airing his concerns publicly. Comedian D.L. Hughley described the op-ed as “insulting,” and Barstool Sports owner Dave Portnoy mocked Clooney for his sudden change in support.
The strain in Biden and Clooney’s relationship was further highlighted by reports that the actor was furious with the White House over its stance on an attempt by Amal Clooney, George’s wife and a prominent human rights lawyer, to prosecute Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for war crimes. Despite these tensions, Clooney still hosted a fundraiser in June alongside actress Julia Roberts and former President Barack Obama, raising substantial funds for Biden’s campaign.
As Clooney’s op-ed continues to stir debate, the Democratic Party faces a critical decision about its future leadership. Clooney suggested that potential candidates like Vice President Kamala Harris, Governors Wes Moore, Gretchen Whitmer, Gavin Newsom, Andy Beshear, and J.B. Pritzker should be considered. “Let’s agree that the candidates not attack one another but, in the short time we have, focus on what will make this country soar,” he proposed.
Biden, however, remains committed to his re-election bid, reaching out to Democratic lawmakers, donors, and mayors to solidify his support. In a letter to Democratic lawmakers, Biden stated, “I want you to know that despite all the speculation in the press and elsewhere, I am firmly committed to staying in this race, to running this race to the end, and to beating Donald Trump.”
The next few months will be crucial for Biden’s campaign as he strives to convince both the party and the public of his capability to lead for another term.